Listening Skills
Hear What People Are Really Saying

Active listening is a technique that enables you to fully concentrate on what others are saying, and to understand their complete message.

It can make you more effective at work, increase your ability to influence and negotiate, and prevent misunderstandings.

Here's how to do it:

Pay Attention
Look at the speaker, be aware of their body language, and ignore distractions.

Provide Feedback
Reflect the speaker's words back to them, and ask questions to check that you understand correctly.

Show That You're Listening
Nod, smile and say "yes" or "uh-huh" from time to time, to encourage the speaker to continue.

Defer Judgment
Allow the speaker to finish their point before you offer a counter argument. It's a discussion, not a race!

Respond Appropriately
Be open, honest and respectful of the speaker's opinion - even if you don't agree with it. If you understand one another's positions, you can work toward a compromise.

Make sure that you really hear what the other person is saying rather than using active listening as a checklist of actions to follow.

Becoming a better listener can increase your productivity, improve your relationships, and help you to avoid conflict.


© 2022 Mind Tools by Emerald Works Ltd.